Q&A with MCLS Student Reese Bielecki

At Kent State’s Department of Modern and Classical Language Studies, our students come from a wide range of backgrounds and bring with them a passion for language, culture, and education. Reese Bielecki (she/her), a German education major, is turning her passion for language and teaching into a purposeful academic journey. 

From discovering her love of German in middle school to preparing for an upcoming study abroad experience in Germany, Reese is embracing every opportunity to grow as a future educator. Read on to learn more about her journey in the MCLS program. 

1. What inspired you to choose the MCLS program at Kent State?

I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher, and when I started taking German in eighth grade I knew there was nothing I would rather teach. My German teacher in high school, Frau Zanella, inspired me to major in German and pursue a career in education. I also knew I wanted to study abroad, and I was inspired by Kent’s education abroad program. 

2. How has your experience in the program shaped your understanding of languages and cultural studies?

My experience in the program has allowed me to meet individuals studying various languages and who come from various backgrounds and cultures. Learning more about language and culture has expanded my views and understanding of the world and has made me a more open-minded person overall. 

3. Are there specific courses or professors that have been particularly impactful for you?

Dr. Koby and Dr. Rossoll have been amazing in helping me continue my language learning journey. Dr. Koby has talked me through German grammar, studying abroad, and scheduling. Dr. Rossoll always has creative lesson plans that expand my German cultural knowledge. They are both very knowledgeable and I am lucky to learn from them. 

4. What extracurricular activities or organizations have you participated in, and how have they enriched your academic journey?

I am the membership coordinator for Kent Student Education Association (KSEA) and will serve as secretary next fall. KSEA allowed me to meet other aspiring educators at Kent State which can be hard because language education majors are few and far between. I found my place there and have had many professional development and social event opportunities, and have made lifelong friendships. 

5. If applicable, can you share your experience with study abroad opportunities offered by the program?

I will be studying abroad in Eichstätt, Germany in Spring 2026. 

6. How does the program integrate technology or AI into language learning and translation studies?

In my Computers in Foreign Language Education class, Dr. Castañeda has given us the opportunity to explore various AI tools and determine which ones we could see ourselves using in our future classroom. We also discuss in detail the implications of AI and how to integrate it appropriately. After taking his class, I am more confident about using technology in my German classroom to engage the students in a way that is familiar to them.

7. What challenges have you faced in the program, and how have you overcome them?

Sometimes scheduling and knowing what’s next can be difficult and confusing, but it’s important to lean on your support system. I talk to friends in my German class and Dr. Koby and Dr. Rossoll about any struggles that I have with German. Dr. Chism has also been amazing at preparing me for what comes next with advanced study, student teaching, and licensure exams. 

8. How has the program prepared you for internships or career opportunities?

My internship will be centered on student teaching, and I believe that the MCLS classes for language education majors are designed very well. I am learning how to be equitable and ethical in the classroom, integrate technology, design lesson plans, and so much more, and I am only a sophomore. 

Looking Ahead

Reese’s journey through the MCLS program highlights our dedication to hiring passionate professors, fostering supportive peers, and providing hands-on experiences that prepare students for their careers in language education. 

With her sights set on teaching German and connecting students through culture and technology, Reese is already making an impact, and her story is just beginning.

Start Your Journey at Kent State MCLS

Interested in a program within Kent State MCLS? We offer a wide range of opportunities that prepare students for rewarding careers in language education, translation, global engagement, and more. 

Explore our programs and be sure to reach out to our team with any questions. Your future in languages start here!